Page Eighteen

Webmaster:  Erasmo “Doc” Riojas  email:  docrio45  [at]  gmail  Dot  com

 

               

 

 

                                        

 

                            

                                

 

Walter S. Pullar III RIP 1959 - 2018

James Derek Lovelace  R.I.P.     1995 – 2016

Navy SEAL Trainee Dies After Passing Out in Training Pool

Walter L. Cary R.I.P.
1927 – 1991 

Walter L. Cary was attending West End High School in Birmingham, AL, when he enlisted in the Naval Reserve. He was just 17 years old on this day in July, 1944. He immediately volunteered for underwater demoliton training and upon acceptance into the program, Walter split his training between Camp Peary, VA. and Fort Pierce. 

Walter Cary was preparing to sail with his demoliton team to participate in the invasion of Japan when the war suddenly ended. As a result, Walter and his mates sailed to Hawaii for more training before going to Japan to help clear the waters of mines and underwater navigation hazards. He spent nearly a year in Japan before returning to the states whereupon he enlisted in the regular navy for two years.

Walter was hand-picked from a team of demolition experts to participate in OPERATION HIGHJUMP. The team, UDT 4, consisted of 26 men and five officers. Their assignment was to keep “the channel of an Antarctic harbor” ice-free during the expedition. In a telephone call to his mother, Walter explained how his team would have to explode an estimated six square miles of ice daily to carry out their mission. 

 

 

George “Sandy” McKamie  R.I.P
      1951 – 2016


contents submitted by Steve “Doc” Elson

 

 On Apr 6, 2016, our SEAL Teammate, SANDY McMILLAN, succumbed to septic shock from an overwhelming infection. He was healthy and fit; his death was completely unexpected. A few days earlier he had felt sort of “punky” but refused to visit the doctor since he (in addition to the SEAL hard head and refusal to see doctors) was busy performing his multitude of tasks for his community, church, and other civic duties. He was found unconscious on the floor and rushed to the hospital where he died shortly thereafter.

 FOR THOSE WHO WOULD LIKE TO CONTACT KITTY DIRECTLY, HER E-MAIL IS: 

KITTYMCMILLAN5@GMAIL.COM 

SHE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM HERE “SEAL TEAM FAMILY!” 

I (Steve Elson, aka Doc) got a call from Sandy’s wife, KITTY, the afternoon he died. We discussed their wishes and KITTY asked me to “get the word out to her SEAL FAMILY.” Getting the requisite information, I wrote a small “guide” concerning the activities, locations, and dress code, etc. of the event. 

With the help of several of our venerable retired SEALS, e.g. Captain Maynard Weyers, Captain Rick Woolard, Doc Rio, Captain Bailey, Bo Burwell et al, the message was distributed quickly and widely.

 To prevent Kitty being overwhelmed with responses, I served as the POC compiling and relaying those responses to her. They came from all parts of the country with very nice one from Rudy Matzat in Germany, former Commanding Officer of the German Frogmen, The Kampfschwimmer Kompanie. Kitty was so grateful for the loving responses which provided her a lot of comfort. When we’d talk she would say that she was much better after reading the notes from her SEAL Family and looked forward to seeing as many as could come.

 

 EVENTS OF SATURDAY 23APR16 Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church: 
1130 – 1330 – Visitation 
1400 – Services 
1530 – Until Meet at Kitty’s house, change into our knockabouts (and Team Gear) for a lot of eating, drinking, hugging, getting to know family and friends, telling stories and laughing. The Service was impressive with the entire Chapel filled in lower and upper decks with literally several hundred people honoring Sandy and Kitty for their service to Our Country and the local community.

 There were also Navy League personnel, Sea Cadets, Boy Scouts, church elders, and others. The latter provided the honor guard; Kitty was presented with a US Flag. Sandy received special tributes from the Pastor of the Church, a retired Navy VADM, and a dear McMillan friend (retired Navy Pilot Frank Emerson).

 Representing the SEAL Community: Tom Keith, Steve Frisk, Frank Sanders, Brad Dunn, Tom Nielsen (and wife), and Steve Elson (and wife). The SEALs were led into the chapel by a member of the church and placed forward on a pew directly behind the family. Following the service, a piper (not bad, but definitely no Rick Woolard) led the family and SEALs from the church to an inner court yard where a small urn of Sandy’s ashes were placed in a columbarium.

 This concluded the services. Kitty will take the remaining ashes to this years Muster in FL where they will be swum out to sea. And then — the fun and stress relief part: Last deployment party at Sandy’s and Kitty’s home. Some pictures, names and textual descriptions follow.

 Below: Tom Keith (always there for Teammates and family) presents Kitty with an autographed copy of his excellent book, SEAL WARRIOR, DEATH IN THE DARK which will help the McMillan boys better understand the SEAL ethos and the “band of brothers” love among Teammates.

 

L to R below: Front Row TOM NIELSEN, TOM KEITH, FRANK SANDERS, ROSEANNE ELSON, STEVE ELSON, ABIGAIL (ROBERT’S WIFE) Second Row: STEVE FRISK, SANDY’S OLDER BROTHER GARNETT, KITTY, MICHELLE NIELSON BETWEEN/IN FRONT, GEORGE III AND WIFE ABBEY, BRAD DUNN Third Row: SHANNON (GORDON’S GIRLFRIEND), AND ROBERT Top Row: GORDON
L to R: TOM KEITH, ROBERT (youngest son), GORDON (middle son), KITTY, and GEORGE III (oldest son)
DURING THE SERVICE IN THE CHAPEL, THERE WAS WHAT SOUNDED LIKE TWO SHOTS, WHICH PROBABLY CAME FROM THE HONOR GUARD. AT THE HOUSE, TO HONOR SANDY AND HIS LIFE, ALL DECIDED ON A 21-BEER SALUTE AS SEEN BELOW.
SEALs burned to death in Fallujah One of these burned cadavers is a Navy SEAL. Mother, you want your lil girl to go into combat with the U.S. Navy SEALs? I am sure the "ragheads" will have a lot of fun with her.
Shit Happens in WAR! Get the Girl Special Operations Soldiers to be ready for the fun and games of the "ragheads."
Brett Allen Marihugh, Killed in Training
Carlos Moleda WIA Panama Fiasco (U.S.Army Fuckup!)
Carlos Moleda and Family
SEAL Team FOUR platoon, Operation Just Cause Panama "Operation Just Cause" SEAL Team FOUR. "Doc" Al Moreno seriously W.I.A. head injury

Foreign Video but worth watching

 

 

Summary and Analysis

Some military analysts view the incursion into Panama as “an idiosyncratic operation.” Hostilities began suddenly and ended just as quickly. Indeed, the initial deployments from the United States started within days of the Christmas holidays, and some troops started redeploying to their home stations just as the traditional holiday season was coming to a close. Compared to previous armed conflicts, total casualties were extraordinarily light. Of 26,000 U.S. military personnel stationed in Panama or deployed to the country for this operation, 23 were killed in action and another 322 were wounded. The total casualties included friendly f ire incidents and injuries sustained on drop zones. The Panama Defense Forces, numbering about 15,000 personnel of all ranks and duty assignments, had 314 killed in action, 124 known to have been wounded in action, and over 5,300 detained by U.S. forces.

 

 

SEAL TEam FOUR
Noriega's Airplane
Patilla Airfield
SEAL Team FOUR
LT. John Connors, SEAL Team 3 KIA Panama Fiasco

I am not a SEAL . John Connors lived the next town over and I am friendly with the family. It was 1989 and seems like a lifetime ago. 
Google his name and you will find the story that appeared in Readers Digest “Measure of a Man”. Have a friend who spend over 25 years in ST 3 AND ST 6. He is out now and struggling. I hope to visit him in the near future. Any questions just e-mail me. 
Massachusetts has produced a few Seals in it’s day. Sad the only ones we read about are the ones that have lost there lives. 
Best of luck 
RAY DARLING

WEBMASTER:  Thank you mr. Darling,  Mr. Connors lost his life due to the incompency of the U.S. Army planners to take down Noriega’s plane without destroying it.  In my time as a SEAL, we could have done that job with 2-3 men at the most and would have left nothing but footprints and a disabled jet plane.  PRESENTLY, SEALs run their own OPs and not the Army of anyone else.

    OPERATION JUST CAUSE Panama War

John Conners KIA Panama
Urgent Fury Map, Grenada (war?) We Did It Our Way
Alfredo Moreno Jr.
Al Moreno and Family
Al Moreno
SEALs Team Four Panama Fiasco Op. Carlos Moleda WIA Panama Fiasco
CHuck Detmer and Grandaughter
CDR. Michael P. Wood
"Doc" Churchill retired from SEAL Team ONE, and was working as a Law Officer when he died a very young age. He was also a Korea FMF war veteran and was awarded the Silver Star which was later reversed to the Navy
Steve S. Burowski
Aron Carson Vaughn KIA Afganistan
Brian
Christopher G. Campbell
Chris Ben with SIGN
Donald Tocci
David M. Collins
Dr Raymond Fritz.
Aaron Carson Vaughn
Dillard Blancett Email
Gerald Feld
Edward M. Davis
Dillard Blancert
Rev.Edward J. McMahon
Patrick Feeks Tombstone
Edward J. Mc Mahon Feeks P.D. SEAL Training City
Glen Grinage
Jason R. Workman
Michael Chalus. He also participated in Midway, Santa Cruz Guadalcanal and a couple of others.

From: rmuzslay [at]  sterlingcreditcorp  DOT com
To: cressoula [at] hotmail  DOT  com
Subject: sent only to my pervert buddies
Date: Tue, 3 Dec 2013

don’t know if you knew Al Dollear.
We were over at the SEAL bar putting away a few beers when Al had to take a leak. He went out back in the alley and unzipped and let it go when a car came down the alley and put it’s brights on Al as he was pissing. Al started to shake his dick at the car. It turned out to be a female Virginia Beach cop. He got a ticket for brandishing a deadly weapon.


True story
Muz

 

Melvin Spence Dry KIA Melvin Spence Dry
Don Shipley
Don Shipley in Puerto Rico
David Copeman
Larry Hubbard
SEAL Sniper
SEAL Medals/equipment
Ben Smith Shutdown in DC
Adm Richards Mike Thornton Eric Burris
Asami, Rio, Glen Grinage, Doc Riojas traveled to San Jose CA, Glen was waiting for me at the airport. We went home to Nina's home in Los Gatos CA. THe wedding was in Foster City, CA. that is the home of Chris Cowen's mother. This is for REAL ! Rio married them! Legally !
Bandera TX SEAL Bikers ; Hershel Davis, Bob Holmes, Scott Phillips, Rudy Boesch, Bill Daughtery, Pete Van FLagg, Bill Miller, Fred Cox, Frank Toms, John Fietch, Gene Warta, Mike McDonald, Lou Hyatt. NOT in picture Jackie Lee and Tractor Dan
Carl Markel WWI
David Henyk
Chris Heben
George Worthington
Larry Theordine, Doc Riojas, Fred Miller Larry Theordine, Doc Riojas, Fred Miller
Jenna & Leif Rabin
John T Boyd
LT. Redmon
Jim watson from Facebook Photo Album
Chris Campbell KIA 06Aug2011
Leif Babin

Roy O. Rollins R.I.P.       1928 – 2016

 

 

 

17 wild facts about the Vietnam War

 

OSS WWII in the Pacific
Jim Watson, Rudy Boesch, Jim Tipton
Marcinko & Kraft
Ben Panas SEAL
Jim Woods
David Becker
Jason Redmon
Jason Redmon
Jesse Ventura in Predator Movie aka: Jesse Janos, brother os Navy SEAL, Jan Janos
John Douangdara KIA
50th ST-2 Anniversary
Kevin Houston and girlfriend
Doc Rio and Bob Holmes at VA Hosp.
"The Body Ventura" ex Governor of Minnesota and turned into a political rebel
Bob Holmes at VA Hosp. his home is in Galveston TX with wife Janet
SEAL Flag
Navy SEA Lions
Operation One Voice Bill Stevens and Mark Mc Ginnis
SEAL Warriors
Reunion Phudnall
Carl Markel
Leap Frog at MINOT USAF base
King and Ventura
Brian R. Bill Memorial Highway
A.D. Clark taken from SKYPE when he was in Costa Rica. He moved there, married a native woman and later died in Costa Rica, some think he was murdered
Jesse V. for President?
Navy SEAL with pinup girls
Marcus Luttrell being saved in Movie" Lone Survivor" Marcus lives in Texas. His twin brother is also a Navy SEAL
SEAL K-9
SEAL Team K-9 K9 taking a break
USNavy Ninja of the SEA ship
Robert W."Bob/Chris" Christensen
Parachuting
Richard Marcinko and Raleigh Kraft and Young Lions on R&R
Harry Humphries in an English Museum
SEALs loading magazines
Erasmo "Doc" Riojas & Bob Clark UWSS reunion at Panama City FL. Reunion THEME "Hawaii Aloha"
Leap Frogs jump into Hollywood for SEAL film opening
Ruiz walking for a cause
Navy SEAL on the Ground
Navy SEAL killed in accident
Swimming Lake for PTSD cause
SEALs Drager SCUBA
Tom Hawkins Photo

Sept. 11: The Attack

2:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (8:30 p.m. Benghazi time): U.S. Ambassador to Libya Chris Stevens steps outside the consulate to say goodbye to a Turkish diplomat. There are no protesters at this time. (“Everything is calm at 8:30,” a State Department official would later say at an Oct. 9 background briefing for reporters. “There’s nothing unusual. There has been nothing unusual during the day at all outside.”)

3 p.m.: Ambassador Stevens retires to his bedroom for the evening. (See Oct. 9 briefing.)

Approximately 3:40 p.m. A security agent at the Benghazi compound hears “loud noises” coming from the front gate and “gunfire and an explosion.” A senior State Department official at the Oct. 9 briefing says that “the camera on the main gate reveals a large number of people – a large number of men, armed men, flowing into the compound.”

About 4 p.m.: This is the approximate time of attack that was given to reporters at a Sept. 12 State Department background briefing. An administration official identified only as “senior administration official one” provides an official timeline of events at the consulate, but only from the time of the attack — not prior to the attack. The official says, “The compound where our office is in Benghazi began taking fire from unidentified Libyan extremists.” (Six of the next seven entries in this timeline — through 8:30 p.m. EDT — all come from the Sept. 12 briefing. The exception being the 6:07 p.m. entry, which comes from Reuters.)

About 4:15 p.m.: “The attackers gained access to the compound and began firing into the main building, setting it on fire. The Libyan guard force and our mission security personnel responded. At that time, there were three people inside the building: Ambassador Stevens, one of our regional security officers, and Information Management Officer Sean Smith.”

Between 4:15 p.m.-4:45 p.m.: Sean Smith is found dead.

About 4:45 p.m.: “U.S. security personnel assigned to the mission annex tried to regain the main building, but that group also took heavy fire and had to return to the mission annex.”

About 5:20 p.m.: “U.S. and Libyan security personnel … regain the main building and they were able to secure it.”

Around 6 p.m.: “The mission annex then came under fire itself at around 6 o’clock in the evening our time, and that continued for about two hours. It was during that time that two additional U.S. personnel were killed and two more were wounded during that ongoing attack.”

6:07 p.m.: The State Department’s Operations Center sends an email to the White House, Pentagon, FBI and other government agencies that said Ansar al-Sharia has claimed credit for the attack on its Facebook and Twitter accounts. (The existence of the email was not disclosed until Reuters reported it on Oct. 24.)

About 8:30 p.m.: “Libyan security forces were able to assist us in regaining control of the situation. At some point in all of this – and frankly, we do not know when – we believe that Ambassador Stevens got out of the building and was taken to a hospital in Benghazi. We do not have any information what his condition was at that time. His body was later returned to U.S. personnel at the Benghazi airport.”

About 10:00 p.m.: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton issues a statement confirming that one State official was killed in an attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi. Her statement, which MSNBC posted at 10:32 p.m., made reference to the anti-Muslim video.

Clinton: Some have sought to justify this vicious behavior as a response to inflammatory material posted on the Internet. The United States deplores any intentional effort to denigrate the religious beliefs of others. Our commitment to religious tolerance goes back to the very beginning of our nation. But let me be clear: There is never any justification for violent acts of this kind.

11:12 p.m.: Clinton sends an email to her daughter, Chelsea, that reads: “Two of our officers were killed in Benghazi by an al Qaeda-like group: The Ambassador, whom I handpicked and a young communications officer on temporary duty w a wife and two young children. Very hard day and I fear more of the same tomorrow.” (The email was discovered in 2015 by the House Select Committee on Benghazi. It is written to “Diane Reynolds,” which was Chelsea Clinton’s alias.)

Sept.12: Obama Labels Attack ‘Act of Terror,’ Not ‘Terrorism’

Sept. 12: Clinton issues a statement confirming that four U.S. officials, not one, had been killed. She calls it a “violent attack.”

Clinton: All the Americans we lost in yesterday’s attacks made the ultimate sacrifice. We condemn this vicious and violent attack that took their lives, which they had committed to helping the Libyan people reach for a better future.

Sept. 12: CIA’s Middle East and North Africa Situation Report says, “[T]he presence of armed assailants from the outset suggests this was an intentional assault and not the escalation of a peaceful protest.” The report was transmitted at 7 a.m. EDT.

Sept. 12: Clinton delivers a speech at the State Department to condemn the attack in Benghazi and to praise the victims as “heroes.” She again makes reference to the anti-Muslim video in similar language.

Clinton: Some have sought to justify this vicious behavior, along with the protest that took place at our Embassy in Cairo yesterday, as a response to inflammatory material posted on the Internet. America’s commitment to religious tolerance goes back to the very beginning of our nation. But let me be clear — there is no justification for this, none

http://iotwreport.com/benghazi-widow-blasts-khans-why-is-your-sons-death-more-tragic-than-my-husbands/

 

Jim Jordan traps Hillary Clinton on blaming video for Benghazi attack when she knew it was planned

Trident House in Ft. Pierce, FL this is where Minh and his wife, Nhu, were housed when he visited USA.
T-11 USArmy Parachutes
SEAL snipers
Justn Legg Takes on a half Marathon with Donated lungs!
Roy Dean matthews 'nam. Roy was a Navy Cook. His specialty was "shit on the shingle"
Navy SEALs were eligible for a one-time enlistment bonus of up to $12,000, as of 2013. They might also qualify for diving pay of up to $340 per month, parachute pay of $150 to $225, hazardous duty pay of $150 per month and hostile fire pay of $225. Doc Riojas' last re-enlistment he was awarded a bonus of $360.00 for six year re-up !

ST-2 Vietnam Vet. and an unforgetful heroic SEAL operator

 

From:  wmlbishop  [at]  aol   DOT  com 

To:  Email Listing; langleychfs, me, a266ol, jandpbishop, johnjaunzems, don1967, Doc Rio

 Hi everyone, 
I hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving – we as former SEALS have much to be thankful for since we were part of the greatest military unit in history. 

The guy in question in the photo  is Doc “Shorty” Long – a great corpsman and SEAL.
I can’t remember the circumstances but Bobby Stamey ran several
ops with us but he is not in the picture.

There was also a question about Scotty Lyons – I was told that Scotty passed away about 5 years ago. Living in California with his wife as I remember. 


I have no information on Bill McCarthy – what a great operator! Hope he is ok.   I don’t have any information of Doc Long either. 

Bill Bishop


              

 

A266O     aol     com 
to:   langleychfs, me Thanks Bill, 

YOU and DANNY still remain COOL AS EVER!!! Some Things NEVER change!!! I’ll hold off on the cockroaches this time, Danny, but thank you for the offer!!! Danny, I understand that RIO has a great recipe for a salad with those critters in it! I’ll ask him to send to you. 

Anyone still stay in touch with Tom Keith?? Another super star of 3rd Platoon!! I read his book – Very Well Done!! Forward by Larry Bailey and Tom Blais. I just talked to Larry last night and still try to call Tom Blais like maybe once a month. Age is really starting to be a factor with Tom as he is in an assisted care facility. I’ve talked to his daughter several times and to RIO. He is in very good hands. Bishop, Tim Jones and I have promised to be his taxis for all of the events for our big 50! 

Best regards, Frank

 

Danny, 

I forwarded an email about 2 weeks ago from Frank that contained a site that talked about our Gemini V adventure. I will forward it to you again. 

I plan to take my 6 year old grandson to Jeannie’s for breakfast tomorrow morning at 10 or a little after. Meet us there and I’ll buy again even though it’s your turn. I want to introduce him to my buddy who used to eat cockroaches. The other stories I’ll keep from his tender ears, OK. 

Bill 

From: A266OL@aol.com [mailto:A266OL@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2013 5:50 PM To: langleychfs@knology.net Cc: a266ol@aol.com; wmlbishop@aol.com; docrio45@gmail.com Subject: Doug Drummond 



Hi Bill, 



Frank Cleary here. Great to hear from you after many years and so glad you had such a successful career in the Navy. Also if would be kind enough to pass this on to Danny McEvoy with a big High Five, that would be very appreciated. Our years in 3rd Platoon of UDT-21 were great memories – St. Thomas, the Dom. Rep. deployment, the recovery of Astronauts Conrad and Cooper (GT-5) and a whole lot more. John Hunt & I always felt that 3rd Platoon was by far the best with guys like Parky, you, Danny, Doug, Ralph, and Pete Spencer. 



Anyway, I wanted to share some of this with you and with Danny. Years after our tour with the Teams (and I can’t remember how we all hooked up again) but Bill Bishop, Doug Drummond, and I all got reconnected and would call each other on a regular basis. Doug had had a few knocks in life, including his ongoing battle with liver cancer, but his spirits always remained high – Vintage Doug! Doug and Carol had divorced, but Carol remained his care giver and best friend. They had two children, son and daughter, Tracy who was in the Army. 



Calls would go something like this: “Doug, we’ll see you at our 40th reunion” – “Hell I ain’t gonna live that long” Another call Doug told me he ripped all the iv’s out of his arm and stormed out of the hospital because they’re jerks – vintage Doug, feisty as ever!! We all shared a lot of laughs, some tears and all became close friends. 



On a Thursday night in November, 10 years ago I got The Call from Carol. My first call was to Bill Bishop, and then to many classmates of Class 32. Bill Bishop went to Doug’s Memorial Service and was the Keynote speaker. I guess that a lot of Doug’s biker friends never believed that Doug was really on the Teams. Bill let them all know that Doug was the real deal!! 



For that 40th Muster that Doug could not attend, Bill and I and a bunch of other classmates arranged for Carol and Tracy to fly in from St. Louis as our guests. They were a little nervous at first, but by the end of the weekend, we were all Family!! 



This year will mark our 50th, hope to see you both in Little Creek. 



Best Regards and Happy Thanksgiving to you both. 



Frank

John Westfall 
to me FYI 

—–Original Message—– From: steven swartley [mailto:stevenswartley@sisna.com] Sent: Monday, November 25, 2013 1:40 PM To: jbetz@lockport.wnyric.org Cc: Will Sawyer; John Westfall Subject: Clarence Betz 


I served with him and others in a detachment to Danang, leaving the US about 
1 November, 1965. Our tour was about 6 months, Willits Sawyer as OIC and Chief Curtis as senior enlisted. Peter Slempa was a part of that deployment. Steven Swartley Sent from my iPad

This email was cleaned by emailStripper, available for free from http://www.papercut.biz/emailStripper.htm

 

From:   A266OL   [at]  aol  DOT com 

to:    langleychfs, wmlbishop, me Hi Bill, 

Frank Cleary here. Great to hear from you after many years and so glad you had such a successful career in the Navy. Also if would be kind enough to pass this on to Danny McEvoy with a big High Five, that would be very appreciated. Our years in 3rd Platoon of UDT-21 were great memories – St. Thomas, the Dom. Rep. deployment, the recovery of Astronauts Conrad and Cooper (GT-5) and a whole lot more. John Hunt & I always felt that 3rd Platoon was by far the best with guys like Parky, you, Danny, Doug, Ralph, and Pete Spencer. 

Anyway, I wanted to share some of this with you and with Danny. Years after our tour with the Teams (and I can’t remember how we all hooked up again) but Bill Bishop, Doug Drummond, and I all got reconnected and would call each other on a regular basis. Doug had had a few knocks in life, including his ongoing battle with liver cancer, but his spirits always remained high – Vintage Doug! Doug and Carol had divorced, but Carol remained his care giver and best friend. They had two children, son and daughter, Tracy who was in the Army. 

Calls would go something like this: “Doug, we’ll see you at our 40th reunion” – “Hell I ain’t gonna live that long” Another call Doug told me he ripped all the iv’s out of his arm and stormed out of the hospital because they’re jerks – vintage Doug, feisty as ever!! We all shared a lot of laughs, some tears and all became close friends. 

On a Thursday night in November, 10 years ago I got The Call from Carol. My first call was to Bill Bishop, and then to many classmates of Class 32. Bill Bishop went to Doug’s Memorial Service and was the Keynote speaker. I guess that a lot of Doug’s biker friends never believed that Doug was really on the Teams. Bill let them all know that Doug was the real deal!! 

For that 40th Muster that Doug could not attend, Bill and I and a bunch of other classmates arranged for Carol and Tracy to fly in from St. Louis as our guests. They were a little nervous at first, but by the end of the weekend, we were all Family!! 

This year will mark our 50th, hope to see you both in Little Creek. 

Best Regards and Happy Thanksgiving to you both. 

Frank

 

 

Bill Bishop

 

      x

 

From:  Janet Potts  jepotts7  [at]  excite  DOT  com
To:   Doc Riojas
Subj:   Thank You card

Doc,  Your kindness and generosity in helping us bear the expense of Dan’s funeral was greatly appreciated! 

I still think of you as well as the rest of the Navy Seal group. I miss the get togethers and seeing the familiar faces at each party. Will there be a gathering any time soon? If yes, please let me know when and where. I asked Chris Nicola to keep me on the list and he said he would but I have not had even one email. Have there been any get togethers? 

                                                 
                     
Monica & Janet                 Monica                  Vanessa Thanksgiving Day 2013


I have attached some photos from Thanksgiving. We relaxed and enjoyed it with family this year. (Ate too much, too!) 

Anyway, you and LouLou have a Blessed Holiday Season and enjoy those grandkids, too! 

Most of all, I want to thank you for remembering me and keeping in touch. I truly appreciate this.

                       Your Friend,  Janet Potts

 

 

                                         Janet Potts

 

 

From:  wm l bishop
To :     Doc Riojas,  langleychfs, me, a266ol, jandpbishop, johnjaunzems, don1967
Subj:  have a nice Thanksgiving

Hi everyone, 

I hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving – we as former SEALS have much to be thankful for since we were part of the greatest military unit in history. 
                                            
The SEAL, above,  in question is Doc “Shorty” Long – a great corpsman and SEAL. I can’t remember the circumstances but Bobby Stamey ran several ops with us but he is not in the picture. There was also a question about Scotty Lyons – I was told that Scotty passed away about 5 years ago. Living in California with his wife as I remember. 

I have no information on Bill McCarthy – what a great operator! Hope he is ok.
I don’t have any information of Doc Long either. 

Bill Bishop

 

From: A266OL
to
:langleychfs,

 Thanks Bill, 

YOU and DANNY still remain COOL AS EVER!!! Some Things NEVER change!!! I’ll hold off on the cockroaches this time, Danny, but thank you for the offer!!! Danny, I understand that RIO has a great recipe for a salad with those critters in it! I’ll ask him to send to you. 

Anyone still stay in touch with Tom Keith?? Another super star of 3rd Platoon!! I read his book – Very Well Done!! Forward by Larry Bailey and Tom Blais. I just talked to Larry last night and still try to call Tom Blais like maybe once a month. Age is really starting to be a factor with Tom as he is in an assisted care facility. I’ve talked to his daughter several times and to RIO. He is in very good hands. Bishop, Tim Jones and I have promised to be his taxis for all of the events for our big 50! 

Best regards, Frank

Danny, 

I forwarded an email about 2 weeks ago from Frank that contained a site that talked about our Gemini V adventure. I will forward it to you again. 

I plan to take my 6 year old grandson to Jeannie’s for breakfast tomorrow morning at 10 or a little after. Meet us there and I’ll buy again even though it’s your turn. I want to introduce him to my buddy who used to eat cockroaches. The other stories I’ll keep from his tender ears, OK. 

Bill 



From: A266OL
Sent: Tuesday, November 26, 2013
To: langleychfs
Cc: a266ol; wmlbishop; docrio45 Subject: Doug Drummond 

Hi Bill, 

Frank Cleary here. Great to hear from you after many years and so glad you had such a successful career in the Navy. Also if would be kind enough to pass this on to Danny McEvoy with a big High Five, that would be very appreciated. Our years in 3rd Platoon of UDT-21 were great memories – St. Thomas, the Dom. Rep. deployment, the recovery of Astronauts Conrad and Cooper (GT-5) and a whole lot more. John Hunt & I always felt that 3rd Platoon was by far the best with guys like Parky, you, Danny, Doug, Ralph, and Pete Spencer. 

Anyway, I wanted to share some of this with you and with Danny. Years after our tour with the Teams (and I can’t remember how we all hooked up again) but Bill Bishop, Doug Drummond, and I all got reconnected and would call each other on a regular basis. Doug had had a few knocks in life, including his ongoing battle with liver cancer, but his spirits always remained high – Vintage Doug! Doug and Carol had divorced, but Carol remained his care giver and best friend. They had two children, son and daughter, Tracy who was in the Army. 

Calls would go something like this: “Doug, we’ll see you at our 40th reunion” – “Hell I ain’t gonna live that long” Another call Doug told me he ripped all the iv’s out of his arm and stormed out of the hospital because they’re jerks – vintage Doug, feisty as ever!! We all shared a lot of laughs, some tears and all became close friends. 

On a Thursday night in November, 10 years ago I got The Call from Carol. My first call was to Bill Bishop, and then to many classmates of Class 32. Bill Bishop went to Doug’s Memorial Service and was the Keynote speaker. I guess that a lot of Doug’s biker friends never believed that Doug was really on the Teams. Bill let them all know that Doug was the real deal!! 

For that 40th Muster that Doug could not attend, Bill and I and a bunch of other classmates arranged for Carol and Tracy to fly in from St. Louis as our guests. They were a little nervous at first, but by the end of the weekend, we were all Family!! 

This year will mark our 50th, hope to see you both in Little Creek. 

Best Regards and Happy Thanksgiving to you both. 
Frank

John Westfall 

to all
FYI 

—–Original Message—–
From: steven swartley 
Sent: Monday, November 25, 2013
To: jbetz 
 [at]  lockport.wnyric.org
Cc: Will Sawyer; John Westfall
Subject: Clarence Betz 


I served with him and others in a detachment to Danang, leaving the US about 
1 November, 1965. Our tour was about 6 months, Willits Sawyer as OIC and Chief Curtis as senior enlisted. Peter Slempa was a part of that deployment. 

Steven Swartley 

Sent from my iPad

 

                                                                                                                       BIll Bishop

 

 

Alexander in Afghanistan 

A review of “The Afghan Campaign.” : A novel ,

 by Steven Pressfield By Ronald Cluett Posted May 15, 2007 

This article appeared in the Spring 2007 issue of the Claremont Review of Books. 

Alexander the Great ran one of the shrewdest media operations in history. His entourage included men whose job it was to chronicle his exploits, both for dissemination among his contemporaries and for posterity. While their works have not survived the passage of time, their influence has. Alexander is one of the select figures from classical antiquity who continues to excite the popular imagination, not just in the West but in Central Asia and India as well .

  Spin control thus has an ancient pedigree. In antiquity as in the present, broadcasting a preferred interpretation of a leader’s prowess involved the suppression of inconvenient perspectives, whether dissents from Alexander’s strategic vision or the enormous suffering and sacrifice exacted by that vision’s implementation. Each perspective-the strategic vision and the human toll-sheds light on Alexander’s boldest gamble, the invasion of Afghanistan, which is the subject of Steven Pressfield’s gripping fictional recreation in The Afghan Campaign.

  Alexander’s strategic rationale for conquering Persia had been clear, defensible, and popular: by leading a Greek army to victory in the heart of Persia, he would avenge the Persian defeat of the Greeks on Greek soil over a century earlier. Conquering Afghanistan, however, was another matter entirely. The rationale was never clearly or persuasively articulated, and whatever might have motivated him-his own further glorification, ambition to conquer any territory not yet subject to his rule, or insatiable curiosity about the peoples and places “at the edges of the world”-he failed to rally his increasingly polyglot troops to fight with the unwavering dedication they had displayed during the Persian campaign. 

Moreover, those troops faced in Afghanistan conditions that would test invading armies for the next two millennia. The harsh mountainous terrain and brutal weather were only part of the challenge. The Afghans themselves were no less formidable than their environment. Riven by internal divisions and tribal loyalties, they nonetheless proved more than capable of rallying to resist the designs of a foreign invader. As a result, Alexander spent more time conquering Afghanistan than he did Persia, and with less to show for it: not only did Afghanistan offer no comparable symbolic and strategic victory, but constant revolts undermined whatever glory he could claim for his defeat of Spitamenes, his primary Afghan foe.

  

“In the company of warriors, I have no need to explain myself. 

In the company of warriors, everybody understands.

  In the company of warriors, I don’t have to pretend to be someone I’m not.

  Or strike that pose, however well-intentioned, that is expected by 

those who have not known me under arms.

  In the company of warriors all my crimes are forgiven.

  I am safe.

  I am known.

  I am home.

  In the company of warriors.” 

David S. Greenberg

Attorney at Law

 

This is a great quote from a book that Stephen Pressfield wrote in 2006 about Alexander the Great, called “The Afghan Campaign.”  In it, he quotes a Macedonian requiem.  The quote is apropos for this august group:

 

       SEAL Ethos

In times of war or uncertainty there is a special breed of warrior ready to answer our Nation’s call. A common man with uncommon desire to succeed. Forged by adversity, he stands alongside America’s finest special operations forces to serve his country, the American people, and protect their way of life. I am that man.

My Trident is a symbol of honor and heritage. Bestowed upon me by the heroes that have gone before, it embodies the trust of those I have sworn to protect. By wearing the Trident I accept the responsibility of my chosen profession and way of life. It is a privilege that I must earn every day.

My loyalty to Country and Team is beyond reproach. I humbly serve as a guardian to my fellow Americans always ready to defend those who are unable to defend themselves. I do not advertise the nature of my work, nor seek recognition for my actions. I voluntarily accept the inherent hazards of my profession, placing the welfare and security of others before my own.

I serve with honor on and off the battlefield. The ability to control my emotions and my actions, regardless of circumstance, sets me apart from other men. Uncompromising integrity is my standard. My character and honor are steadfast. My word is my bond.

We expect to lead and be led. In the absence of orders I will take charge, lead my teammates and accomplish the mission. I lead by example in all situations.

I will never quit. I persevere and thrive on adversity. My Nation expects me to be physically harder and mentally stronger than my enemies. If knocked down, I will get back up, every time. I will draw on every remaining ounce of strength to protect my teammates and to accomplish our mission. I am never out of the fight.

We demand discipline. We expect innovation. The lives of my teammates and the success of our mission depend on me – my technical skill, tactical proficiency, and attention to detail. My training is never complete.

We train for war and fight to win. I stand ready to bring the full spectrum of combat power to bear in order to achieve my mission and the goals established by my country. The execution of my duties will be swift and violent when required yet guided by the very principles that I serve to defend.

Brave men have fought and died building the proud tradition and feared reputation that I am bound to uphold. In the worst of conditions, the legacy of my teammates steadies my resolve and silently guides my every deed. I will not fail. 

                

by:  David S. Greenberg Attorney at Law 
This is a great quote from a book that Stephen Pressfield wrote in 2006 about Alexander the Great, called “The Afghan Campaign.” In it, he quotes a Macedonian requiem. The quote is apropos for this august group:

 

ALexander in Afganistan

A266OL
Nov 26 2913 

to:   langleychfs, wmlbishop, me

 Hi Bill, 

Frank Cleary here. Great to hear from you after many years and so glad you had such a successful career in the Navy. Also if would be kind enough to pass this on to Danny McEvoy with a big High Five, that would be very appreciated. Our years in 3rd Platoon of UDT-21 were great memories – St. Thomas, the Dom. Rep. deployment, the recovery of Astronauts Conrad and Cooper (GT-5) and a whole lot more. John Hunt & I always felt that 3rd Platoon was by far the best with guys like Parky, you, Danny, Doug, Ralph, and Pete Spencer. 

Anyway, I wanted to share some of this with you and with Danny. Years after our tour with the Teams (and I can’t remember how we all hooked up again) but Bill Bishop, Doug Drummond, and I all got reconnected and would call each other on a regular basis. Doug had had a few knocks in life, including his ongoing battle with liver cancer, but his spirits always remained high – Vintage Doug! Doug and Carol had divorced, but Carol remained his care giver and best friend. They had two children, son and daughter, Tracy who was in the Army. 

Calls would go something like this: “Doug, we’ll see you at our 40th reunion” – “Hell I ain’t gonna live that long” Another call Doug told me he ripped all the iv’s out of his arm and stormed out of the hospital because they’re jerks – vintage Doug, feisty as ever!! We all shared a lot of laughs, some tears and all became close friends. 

On a Thursday night in November, 10 years ago I got The Call from Carol. My first call was to Bill Bishop, and then to many classmates of Class 32. Bill Bishop went to Doug’s Memorial Service and was the Keynote speaker. I guess that a lot of Doug’s biker friends never believed that Doug was really on the Teams. Bill let them all know that Doug was the real deal!! 

For that 40th Muster that Doug could not attend, Bill and I and a bunch of other classmates arranged for Carol and Tracy to fly in from St. Louis as our guests. They were a little nervous at first, but by the end of the weekend, we were all Family!! 

This year will mark our 50th, hope to see you both in Little Creek. 

Best Regards and Happy Thanksgiving to you both. 

Frank

 

Navy SEALs on Boat
Steve Waterman, Navy Photographer
Don Shipley

SEAL Vet: Obama Ask Military if They Will Shoot Americans     ROE’s, down range:   NEVER EVER shoot a “raghead” unless he shoots at your first!                      Are there any ROEs to shoot Americans?                    Question:  Are the folks in D.C. considered civilians?   

 


ALFA: To Vietnam and Back by Marie Morrell �

 Kickstarter documentary about SEAL Team ONE ALFA platoon in Vietnamwww.kickstarter.com/projects/374957198/alfa…vietnam…back   CachedMarie Morrell is raising funds for ALFA: To Vietnam and Back on Kickstarter! The story of the never-before-seen combat photos of the Navy SEAL Platoon and …

 

Mike Thornton,I forgot who sent me this photo, sorry.
Peggy and Tom SHoulders home
Which one is Jeremiah P. Navy SEAL? J. P. and his Dad


Navy SEAL challenge coin

SEAL Team ONE and SEAL Team TWO, Vietnam era Frogmen/SEALs

 

Navy SEAL Challenge Coin.


Erasmo “Doc” Riojas   Challenge Coin:  star on the “C.A.R.” which
is the 1st ribbon, for Korea, the 2nd is the Vietnam War, and the blue .3d. ribbon is awarded for the Korea Police Action (USMC emblem).  Purchased from:  www.wholesale-challengecoins.com  1 (877) 870 4946 

Anyone want one of these Doc Rio coins; email me and be prepared to be asked to make a donation to the UDT SEAL Museum.  Email: docrio45  [at]  gmail  DOT  com

The Gun That Aims Itself (Documentary) video

My Favorite Videos:HERE! and one more HERE!  just one more HERE!

Sceleta Miller, Daughter of Fred and Linda Miller weds Eric ______ in Moline, Ill. 09Nov2013

click on graphic to go to the video.

Jerry Hammarle & PRU troops in 'nam
Erasmo Riojas, Hilario Riojas (Father) Emanuel J. Riojas
Hal Kuykendall
Matthew Kantor
Barry Enoch
Vanesa & Larry Theodine, Fred Miller, Erasmo "Doc" Riojas

 

 VADM Robert Hayward , Navy SEAL, Parachutes into his own retirement

 

 

 

Glen Grinnage, he lives in Myabashi, Japan with his wife Asami. Glen was our STAB driver back in 1967 when we were operating out of MyTho VN. He took us into those tee-tee canals and then went back to the Mike Boat all by his lonesome ! Capt Larry Bailey and i tried to get him some recognition, USNavy Commendation Medal, but the in charge of the 7th platoon did not want to sign the forms to submitt to Glen's Congressman in D.C. Doc Riojas

 

 

MICHAEL McQUILLIS    WAKE 

 

 Date:   Wednesday, November 20, 2013   Time: 4 PM  

 Location: Chick’s Oyster Bar 
2143 Vista Circle Lynnhaven Inlet Virginia Beach, VA

 

 http://www.chicksoysterbar.com/   

Please click on this link for more information


Webmaster Note:

May Mike, one of my swim buddies Rest in Eternal Peace in Frog Heaven. He will be missed.         Erasmo “Doc” Riojas,  ST-2  Retired


14Nov2013

From: Bill Langley 
to:      Doc RIojas

This sounds like a sad and lonely ending. Mike was a good teammate. Ed Ruffin, Mike Atkinson, and Cory Bissell are to be commended. Sorry I can’t be there.

Bill

 

ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

    39 Year U.S. Navy SEAL, Pete “Bullfrog-13? Wikul 



(Ret.) CAPT Peter I. Wikul is “BULLFROG 13?, was one of the longest serving US Navy SEALS while he was active duty. Pete Wikul is the co-founder of Mission Ready, Inc. and a former U.S. Navy SEAL. Wikul has led a long and distinguished career in the military, earning the title “Bullfrog 13” as the thirteenth U.S. Navy SEAL to be honored as the longest serving SEAL on active duty (39 years). 

He was born May 6th, 1952 in Manhattan, New York, and enlisted in the Navy in May 1970. Soon after he volunteered for the Underwater Demolition Team (UDT) / Sea Air and Land (SEAL) program and graduated UDTB Class 7102, the last east coast UDT/SEAL training class. He served at UDT Twenty ONE and later SEAL Team TWO before selection to Officer Candidate School, Newport, Rhode Island. Upon commissioning he returned to Naval Special Warfare, completing tours at: SEAL Team ONE, UDT ELEVEN (re-designated as SEAL Team FIVE during his tour), United Nations Military Observer Group Palestine (observer Group Lebanon), SEAL Delivery Vehicle TWO, Special Boat Unit TWENTY, Naval Special Warfare Center, Special Boat Unit TWELVE, the Joint Staff, Special Operations Command South, and the Office of Naval Intelligence. CAPT Wikul served as the Deputy Commander for SOCSOUTH and Commanding Officer for SEAL Delivery Vehicle TWO. He was the commanding officer and plank owner (founding member) of the Kennedy Irregular Warfare Center, Office of Naval Intelligence in Washington, D.C. His awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit with gold star, and numerous other personal and campaign medals. In addition, CAPT Wikul shares the 1988 Nobel Peace Prize as one of the few United Nations Observers and Peacekeepers who served in Lebanon. 

Wikul’s Rules: 

Take care of your people, they are your most important assets Never compromise your personal integrity Prepare for total war. When called upon to fight, win. 

– See more at: http://www.companionsforheroes.org/leadership-council/#sthash.EGbD9WT4.dpuf

This email was cleaned by emailStripper, available for free from http://www.papercut.biz/emailStripper.htm

 

 

From: Glen Grinage
To: Robert Peterson  
Sent: Friday, September 6, 2013
Subject: STAB Vietnam accident confession 

Morning Capt. Peterson,

  My name is Glen Grinage, your STAB operator in 1967/68 in My Tho, now residing permanently in Japan where I have lived on and off for the past forty years. The purpose of this email is twofold:

  (1) how to address the alias Doc/Chief Rio when he visits you at your residence this month, and 

(2) my confession to you of an incident that occurred on the mike boat when we were stationed in My Tho in the sixties. The now newely appointed;

  The Reverend Erasmo Riojas will become a man of the cloth and officiate My  wedding ceremony that has me tying the knot for the second time (my first wife of 32 years passed away 8 years ago) with Toshiko Asami, also a widow. The Reverend has taken on the task of acquiring the necessary license to perform the ceremony and to fly all the way from Texas to San Francisco where  the ceremony is to take place.

  The old Doc/Chief is no more; we all shall henceforth address him as The Reverend. And he damn well should be revered: two wars, wounded five times, deep-sea diver, SEAL/killer, medical doctor, and now the Reverend. The confession: You had a hammock strung from the wood platform that was built over the well deck of our My Tho mike boat, and that hammock was really comfortable. 

On one such operation when you and the other SEALS were still out slogging through the boonies, I crawled up into your hammock and drifted off into a heavenly peaceful sleep. I don’t recall because I was asleep, but I suppose the mike boat was used for the extraction on that particular operation (the STAB certainly wasn’t used, as I was sound asleep). The inconsiderate noise you guys made clamoring onto the mike boat partially awakened me, but the hammock was so comfortable I couldn’t bring myself to leap out of it to make way for you to crawl in so as to get your much deserved rest. 

Through a sleepily cracked eyelid, I saw you unselfishly motion to the others to leave me be. They seemed to have been eager to fling me onto the deck in what would have been a rough manner, I’m sure. 

  A belated thanks for the few extra winks, 

Glen Grinnage


 


From:Pete Peterson
To: Glen Grinage
 Sent: Sunday, September 8, 2013
Subject: SEAL STAB Accident confession 

  Glen. 

Of course I remember this incident. I can not recall the details on how the decision was made to,use the Stab for the extraction. I recall that it was a mid day extraction and we had been in the oparea for hours, had not been in contact but the extraction area was very open and exposed. I doubt that you all on the Mike boat were aware of the swell/surf conditions on the beach.

 You did not make the decision to use the STAB, That would have been my call or your OICs call. Once the danger of theSTAB extraction became obvious, I should have waved you off, I did not. So, cut yourself some slack. You did the best you could to handle the boat in a situation it was wrong for you to be in. 

I remember the SEAL advisor to the LDNN telling me some years later the the guy who lost his leg had been fitted with an artificial leg but I suspect he had bigger problems after the South fell.  

Pete

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         http://vimeo.com/74313583

halolpal [at] aol  DOT  com
to halolpal 

Thank you plank owner Dennis McCormack for taking great pictures again. Last year Peso complained that there weren’t any pictures of him. This year he made sure Dennis took his picture. If your picture isn’t in the video be sure to grab Dennis next year. 

As those of you who attended the party know, there were 14 members of Barry Enoch’s family present. My favorite pictures in the video are of teammates telling stories about Barry to the Enoch family. Many thanks to Sam Birky for the great memorial service for Barry on Saturday morning and to Steve Frisk’s daughter for the outstanding film about Alpha Platoon. I’ve spoken to Eatsie twice since the reunion and she says the family is still telling stories about their wonderful reunion weekend. 

Click on the video below and turn on the sound. I hope you enjoy. 

Hal 

http://vimeo.com/74313583

 

 

x

From:duke ogden 
To: Gentlemen and Lady: 
One finds it hard to add any commentary or opinion regarding this particular SitRep…

An attack in Herat; Carter arrives in Kabul, Dempsey in Budapest; Crushing Afghanista​n retrograde​; One sailor has lost nine friends to suicide; Rummy returns; and a bit more. [Presented today by Lockheed Martin.]”

the reason is simple: I still can recall watching the “shorts” at the Saturday movies for kids…the cartoons, 1930 era comedies, and such. 

But then I grew up and as all men do, put away such childish things… enlisted in the Marine Corps, started working as a commercial diver, enlisted in the Navy and made it into the Teams, went back to working offshore. 


At the age one is now, it is painful to see that our ‘leaders’ are still wearing short pants and pulling Buckwheat’s hair…or imitating Harold Lloyd’s perilous antics while hanging on to the side of a building. 

Tropical Frog         Duke Ogden 

 

 

     Doc Tribute: US Navy Corpsman History

dated 9/12/2013
fwaranch@wildblue.net writes: 
from: Jim Dickson
who was on the Mighty Moe (SEAL LCM) When it was ambushed —All hands were wounded and 2 critical-who had to be discharged due their extensive wounds. Many HEROIC Actions that night. I had a HMC CHURCHILL who had 7 purple hearts.

  Franklin 

 


From: Jim Dickson:
Subject: 
If I remember correctly two of the SEALs aboard the Mike boat during the ambush of 7 OCT 66 were E6 Corpsmen. That’s probably one of the reasons everyone was wounded but nobody died.
Franklin

 


Dennis KMSEAL [at] aol  DOT com 
to:  fwaranch, doc Rio , bristow123, jerry, maynardweyers, nickclass28, alanrouth, annsword, acharette, galmesa, rdruss, hooyah29, buddyseal, BullDevine, foxbury007, David.Janke, DocDennis, nortonricharde, douglasanderso., elainehjohnson, ellen.roberts.., frogdoc58, shotin68, makensjc, jdefloria
Subj: Joe Churchill


Franklin, 
I remember Joe Churchill only so well. While I was playing football on the Amphib Base, my youngest daughter went around collecting gum from under the bleacher seats, and in mid-game my wife started screaming and ran out on the field and handed Karen to me who was not breathing.

 Joe ran over, took Karen from me, and turned her on her stomach and hit her between the shoulder blades so hard I thought she would break. Out came the biggest wad of bubble gum I had ever seen, and Karen started breathing normally.

 HOOYAH to Joe and all hospital corpsmen, past, present, and in the future. 
Dennis 


dated 9/12/2013fwaranch@wildblue.net writes: 

from: Jim Dickson
To:Dennis KMSEAL [at] aol  DOT com    fwaranch, doc Rio , bristow123, jerry, maynardweyers, nickclass28, alanrouth, annsword, acharette, galmesa, rdruss, hooyah29, buddyseal, BullDevine, foxbury007, David.Janke, DocDennis, nortonricharde, douglasanderso., elainehjohnson, ellen.roberts.., frogdoc58, shotin68, makensjc, jdefloria

who was on the Mighty Moe (SEAL LCM) When it was ambushed —All hands were wounded and 2 critical-who had to be discharged due their extensive wounds. Many HEROIC Actions that night. I had a HMC CHURCHILL who had 7 purple hearts.

 Franklin 

dated 9/12/2013
From:fwaranch@wildblue.net writes: 

This e-mail is from Jim Dickson who was on the Mighty Moe (SEAL LCM) When it was ambushed —All hands were wounded and 2 critical-who had to be discharged due their extensive wounds. Many HEROIC Actions that night. I had a HMC CHURCHILL who had 7 purple hearts.

  Franklin 

 

Bo Reichenbach

http://sofrep.com/26572/navy-seal-bo-reichenbach/

Sep 22, 1946  –  Sep 5, 2013

In 1967 Bill joined the Navy and served aboard the USS Saratoga (DV-60). He graduated from UDT

and was assigned to SEAL Team TWO and was deployed to Vietnam in trhe fall of 1969.  He was

awarded the Bronze Star with Combat “V” for heroic achievement on APril 2, 1970 for rescuing two

Vietnamese women and children from drowning during a Vietn Cong ambush. He received the Purple

Heart for wounds received in combat. After the Vietnam war he was stationed at USNav Amphibious Base

Little Creek, VA where he was an instructor in BUD/S



From:BOBURWELL[at]  aol  DOT  com 
to :    Rick Woolard

It is a bitter pill to swallow hearing news of a teammate passing. Just a few days ago Capt Woolard and I spoke of Bill, we had all better get our house in order. Best regards to all, Bo Burwell 



From: rtpw@cox.net To: BOBURWELL@aol.com, udtseal3@cox.net CC: oceancall@webtv.net, seal@panama.gulf.net, finleyj@centurylink.net, johnsondh@peoplepc.com, lerflorida@gmail.com Sent: 9/9/2013  Subj: Bill Beebe 

Third Platoon SEAL Team TWO : He was 65. Will send more info as I get it. Too late to get a Trident for the casket but I will send one to each of his kids with a note. If anyone has email addresses for Bill Garnett, Bruce Gammell, Fred Keener and Mike Kelly, please send them to the rest of us. 

Rick Woolard




From: Larry Rich <lerflorida@gmail.com> Date: September 9, 2013 3:52:36 PM EDT To: Rick Woolard <rtpw@cox.net> Subject: Bill Beebe 

Hi Rick, Sad news. Bill Beebe passed away last Thursday. He died at home. Apparently he had a heart attack. Deb and I got the news this morning. Bill’s former wife , Sheri, left a message for me at Spencer. We were on a way back from SFO having spent the last couple of weeks visiting with the kids and attending my sister, Karen’s 70th birthday party. We re- routed our flights and are scheduled to arrive Grand Rapids, Mich around midnight tonight. There will be a private ceremony for close friends and family tomorrow at 11:00 in Holland Mich. Is there a way to get a trident sent so that I can decorate his casket and give him a Seal send off? If so, maybe you could send it to the funeral home address in the obituary that you can get online. Very short notice. I understand if it is not possible. 

Hope you are well. Best to all, L and D 


————————————————-

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BOBURWELL@aol.com 

It is a bitter pill to swallow hearing news of a teammate passing. Just a few days ago Capt Woolard and I spoke of Bill, we had all better get our house in order. Best regards to all, Bo Burwell 

——————————————————————————–
From: rtpw@cox.net To: BOBURWELL@aol.com, udtseal3@cox.net CC: oceancall@webtv.net, seal@panama.gulf.net, finleyj@centurylink.net, johnsondh@peoplepc.com, lerflorida@gmail.com Sent: 9/9/2013 9:09:44 P.M. Central Daylight Time Subj: Fwd: Bill Beebe 



Third Platoon: He was 65. Will send more info as I get it. Too late to get a Trident for the casket but I will send one to each of his kids with a note. If anyone has email addresses for Bill Garnett, Bruce Gammell, Fred Keener and Mike Kelly, please send them to the rest of us. Rick 
757 395 9942 




From: Larry Rich <lerflorida@gmail.com> Date: September 9, 2013 3:52:36 PM EDT To: Rick Woolard <rtpw@cox.net> Subject: Bill Beebe 

Hi Rick, Sad news. Bill Beebe passed away last Thursday. He died at home. Apparently he had a heart attack. Deb and I got the news this morning. Bill’s former wife , Sheri, left a message for me at Spencer. We were on a way back from SFO having spent the last couple of weeks visiting with the kids and attending my sister, Karen’s 70th birthday party. We re- routed our flights and are scheduled to arrive Grand Rapids, Mich around midnight tonight. There will be a private ceremony for close friends and family tomorrow at 11:00 in Holland Mich. Is there a way to get a trident sent so that I can decorate his casket and give him a Seal send off? If so, maybe you could send it to the funeral home address in the obituary that you can get online. Very short notice. I understand if it is not possible. 

Hope you are well. 

Best to all, L and D 


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   William Geerds BeeBe, R.I.P.

 

Jack Walson
Jesse Ventura and Kinky Friedman


Can Tho PRU, Harry Humphries  SEAL 2

From: DarrenAGreenwell [at] aol  DOT  com
to:  hhgsgi, Doc Rio
Subj:  Can Tho PRU


Harry, 

How are you? I hope you and yours are well and that you are pleased with the end results of your work on Lone Survivor… I look forward to seeing it when it hits the screens in the UK. 

Can you help me with a couple of Vietnam questions? I found this great picture on the internet of you with Drew… who is the shooter on the left? 

 

Rex Johnson SEAL Team TWO

The Phong Dinh Province, Provincial Reconnaissance Unit were located / headquartered at Can Tho in Phong Dinh Province on the Mekong Delta. 

Set up at the end of the 1950’s by the CIA the Phong Dinh Province Provincial Recon Unit was manned by members of the Cao Dai Religious Group. Displaced from North Vietnam the Tribal Group was one of the largest in the Mekong delta and numbered some 2,000,000 people in total. 

By 1962 the Phong Dinh Province PRU was effectively a Private Army and through contributions and training became loyal to the CIA and US Special Forces by 1964 although remained disenchanted with the government of South Vietnam. 

Considered ‘Effective’ in their fighting capabilities the growth of the Mike Force Unit from the Cao Dai remained restricted due to their distrust of the government and their stated requirement that their main combatants remain close to their families. By early 1967 the sect was largley spread and displaced throughout the Mekong delta and as many were fighting with the Viet cong, in this largely VC controlled area as were fighting with the Allies. 

By the end of 1967 and before the Pre Tet Offensive attacks the Cao Dai had spread and separated with many now located in Cambodia (loyal to the Viet Cong), in Tay Ninh Province north of Saigon (fighting with both the Allies and the Viet Cong) with less than a third of the group now located in the Mekong Delta. With the wind down of US Involvement in the Vietnam War and the passing of the command from the US Special Forces to the Tiger Force Rangers, the Phong Dinh PRU, without payment from the South Vietnam Government ceased operatiosn against the Viet cong throughout the Mekong Delta and in Tay Ninh Province. 

As an allied fighting force the Unit had ceased to exist by late 1969 and many of the Special Forces, Airborne, Recon, CIA and US Special Forces trained combatants were now fighting with the communists. The sects combatants were integrated into various VC Units. At the end of the war, members of the Cao Dai sect in Cambodia migrated to Thailand and back into Vietnam. 

The Cao Dai sect, as it was, with some 2,000,000 members, ceased to offically exist in post war communist Vietnam. 



From: Harry Humphries <hhgsgi [at]  me DOT com> 
to: DarrenAGreenwell

The SEAL on the left is Rex Johnson, ST2. We were in Chau Duc with Drew Dix, the PRU Advisor in the province. This was a post Tet operation in 68 I believe we were sweeping a denied area and found a large weapons cache when the VC opened fire on us. I was calling in 105 fire when one of the platoon guys took this shot. We had a camera with us for intel and post op briefs. 

In Dec. 68, I went back after this tour to relieve the PRU Advisor of Phong Dinh in Can Tho, Dennis Drady, who was wounded by a grenade. The province was very hot then. I ran operations throughout the province nightly splitting the unit in small assault groups. I placed intel teams in each of the main villages which increased our intel net providing accurate actionable intel. 

With respect to the Patch, I believe it is accurate, perhaps replica as you say. The PRUs were proud of their unit and did ware the patch on tiger stripes, mixed combat uniforms, black pajamas, always with berets. I wore black Pajamas, no markings. 

Historically, I cannot deny or confirm, but they were a compilation of Cambodians, Vietnamese and some Chinese. Their leader was Mr Tom, an ARVN Die We SUPPOSEDLY. He was a hard ass combat leader, well respected, walked with great difficulty on a cane resulting from several combat wounds. I had worked with him prior to my assignment to the unit with Dick Marcinko in the 8th Platoon, we had a strong warrior relationship. My interpreter was a well spoken Vietnamese, Loong, a tough partner for sure. 

Hope this helps Darren. 
Harry

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Harry Humphries  SEAL 2;  Rex Johnson

5 September 2013 
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert D. Borgstedt, 84, on 26 August 2013, in Pueblo, CO. 
Robert graduated with UDT Training Class 001A in Coronado on 29 August 1951 and served with UDT-1. 
Obituary: 
Robert D. Borgstedt, 84, born February 12, 1929 in Muscatine, Iowa to Anna and Delmar Borgstedt, passed away August 26, 2013.

Robert enlisted in the US Navy during World War II at age seventeen, completed two tours of active duty. He served on a destroyer which participated in the first post-war atomic test at Bikini Atoll. He re-enlisted in the Navy following the outbreak of the Korean Conflict and volunteered for duty with the first training class for the “Naval Frogmen Underwater Demolition Team”, holding the title as ‘the oldest surviving Naval Frogman in the state of Colorado” until his death. After the Navy, Robert joined the Chicago Police Department as a patrolman, followed by a move to Pueblo, where he also joined the Pueblo Police Department and worked for the Department of Corrections. Robert was an avid motorcyclist and enjoyed his rides across country.

 

David PaAaina and Doc Riojas
BruceWMoore 61, R.I.P.

OCTOBER 24, 1950 – JULY 19, 2012 Bruce died Thursday, July 19, 2012 Born in Santa Fe, NM. Mr. Moore was a veteran of the Vietnam war and was a Petty Officer 2nd Class, USNavy SEAL retired 

Bill Langley and Julie
Dave C. Baldwin R.I.P.

Dave C. Baldwin, 63, died Sunday AM; 08 September, 2013 in the Soldier’s Home in Holyoke, Gardner, MA.
Dave graduated with UDT-R Class 50E in Little Creek on 18 December 1970 and served with UDT-21.


From: Diaczenko, Walter 
: Announcement of the Passing of Dave C. Baldwin 
I vaguely remember Dave. His Class was actually UDTB 7003 or in the new order BUDS 50E East Coast. He was 2-classes after ours.

 

Corny Leyden, Tom Hawins, King 1974 SDVs

From: darren a greenwell
to: Doc Rioja

Subj: Remembering LCDR Rock E. Blais 

Rock Blais – June 17, 1961 – August 30 2001. Lieutenant Commander Rock Edward Blais, of Virginia Beach, a US Navy SEAL and member of the United States Special Operations Command Parachute Team died on Thursday, August 30th, 2001 from complications after being injured while parachuting into Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, where he was stationed. 

LCDR Blais was a Naval Officer and SEAL for over 13 years. A few highlights of his numerous military accomplishments include over 1000 parachute jumps, three Navy Commendation Medals, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, and a Navy Achievement Medal. 

Lieutenant Commander Blais’ passing was preceded by the death of his mother, Florence and the recent death of his infant daughter, Aubrey. Survivors include his wife, Hollie; his son and daughter, Scott and Kathryn of New York; his father, Master Chief Thomas Blais (US Navy Seal-Ret.) and sisters, Maria Goodman and Eva Anderson, all of Virginia.

Darren

 

EMAIL:

Re: LCDR Rock E. Blais, may he Rest in Peace 

A266OL  [at]  aol   DOT  com 
Erasmo “Doc” Riojas   docrio45  [at] gmail  DOT  com  RE:  Hey!  Sorry i moved that those pictures  to page 18.



A266OL@aol.com 
to Doc Rio


RIO, You sent out a wonderful tribute to a great SEAL Warrior, LCDR Rock E. B… 

I met LCDR Rock E. Blais when he was all of 3 years old wearing boondocks (His dad would have it no other way) while Instructor Blais was kicking the asses of Bill Bishop, Bill White, and Frank Cleary during the summer of 1964 – Class 32. 

Please advance the frame to the spring of (I’m guessing 1996 give or take). I had just completed a triathlon in the area and came back to visit my old SEAL Team-2. 

Through his busy schedule, LT. Rock Blais was able to spend over an hour with me talking about modern SEAL capabilities, his career as being slated for the next XO of ST-2, and most of all, his dad – one of the MOST respected men I shall forever hold with the greatest of reverence in my life. 

Please now advance the frame in life to August 30, 2001. When I read the Executive Directors e-mail about Rock, I really lost it. About an hour later, Bill Bishop called. We decided to both share the cost of sending flowers from ALL of us in Class 32. 

It took me about six months to write a long letter to Tom about all of this (the flowers are our little secret). As you would expect, Tom’s response was most eloquent and most sad. He talked about the whole SEAL community staying at his side through the time before, during, and after the funeral. 

The toughest man I had ever known in my life had taken a spear through the heart!! I cried – we all cried!

Frank

Remembering LCDR Rock E. Blais 

Roy Dean Matthews
Damien Rio "AKA: Lil Rio" Vazquez & Erasmo Elias Riojas

  Overview
John Boyd is a former international construction executive

Who ambushed LT CMDR Jose carmona’s SEAL team in the mountains of Afghanistan? Why would the head of the CIA’s Counter Terrorism Center want Jose dead? The President wants Guantanamo Bay closed. His Attorney General will conspire to kill even the most elite American fighters to prevent it. Chilling glimpses into the ugly hearts of some of the USA’s most powerful officials. Highly recommended.

 

   ZERObama’s onset of speaking with “forked Tongue.”

Gerry Flowers and Doc Riojas
Lt. Maynard Weyers and MCPO Harry Tindol
Bruce Schliemann, Jeff Gonzales, Duane Nolan, Scott Brauer, Chris Nicola, TX Gov. Rick Perry, Kirk Anthony, Tom McCutchan and Frank Radford My Governer, Rick Perry, did not invite "Doc" Riojas to this party?
Tizz Morrison

UDTs West Coast; click on image to enlarge it.

Rudy and Bill brumuller
Email from Doc Riojas to Ms. Pogue
Jim Frazier
At the Greece Acropolis
Brumuller and Rudy Astronauts Trainees
Frogs in the Persian Gulf
Click on the photo to go to the story !

 Former Navy SEAL, Coleman Ruiz, takes part in a 1,700-mile relay walk, 
May 14, 2012, near Dandridge, Tenn. Ruiz is the executive director
of the Carry the Load program that benefits nonprofit organizations
that help veterans, active duty service members and military 
families. (J. Miles Cary/Knoxville News Sentinel)

 

Fifties Frogs

Juni Salvador here.Archivist of the Philippine Naval Special Special Warfare Group


From: jbadong2004  [at]  yahoo  DOT com      Date: Sep 6 
to” Doc Riojas    docrio45  [at]  gmail  DOT  com
subj:  UDT12 Subic photo info 


Greetings Doc, Juni Salvador here.Archivist of the Philippine Naval Special Special Warfare Group.I have been following your blog for years searching for SEALs deployed in the P.I. Anyway,I believe that the UDT 12 platoon in Subic in the photo on page 15 belonged to the late LCDR then LTJG Albert Schaufelberger.He is on the extreme left of the photo.I was also able to acquire in Olongapo a plaque of his Team .

Attached is the plaque besides the photo from page 15.

 

Best, Juni Salvador

jbadong2004  àt+  yahoo   DOT   com 
11 Sep 2013
Thanks Doc Rio,

you really have a cool blog.Hope the old frogs and SEALs get to enjoy and relieve those photos.I have got more but fixing my files.It’s always great to preserve these naval heritage so the young lions get to know how lucky and privileged they are now.More power and all the best señor! 

Thanks  Juni


From:  Erasmo “Doc” Riojas 
To:  Juni Badong
Thanks a lot. You live in Olongapo? how are the clubs doing? and the MAGANDAS… 


From:  jbadong2004  [at]  yahoo  DOT com 
to:  Doc Riojas  

No worries Doc.I’m from Manila but my wife’s family originally are from Subic town.I did my research to show my kids what Olongapo used to be …warts and all. 
It’s a lot tamer now but the action like before is still in what the “kanos” used to call in Subic city.No more game of smiles??The dwindling old salts are still in Barrio Baretto. 

MAGANDAS are now called GRO’s-Guest Relations Officers.     LOL 

Thanks,   Juni

 

This is why the USA, our Beloved country is in such a SHITHOLE!  These people live among us, they are college educated by freaking commies and Left wing Radicals.  Sad to say, ZERObama in a second term and doing what he

The War Of the Oppressed People new with uncut footage

 

As Sahab Media “The War of the Oppressed People,” continues depicting an ambush carried out on June,28, 2005 by Taliban fighters on a four man Navy seal reconnaissance team participating in the US military Operation, “Red Wing.” The Video starts with the firefight between the Seals and Mujahideen. The Mujahideen then display the War booty taken from the seals in terms of equipment including a US military laptop. Then the video goes on to show an IED attack on the head of security for Kunar province and an American Humvee. Then finally an attack on a US Special Forces outpost which is followed by an interview with a Mujahid named Noman.

Taliban commander “Ismail” and his men planned and executed the attack which killed 3 navy seals in an ambush and downed a MH-47 Chinook killing all 16 members on board including 8 navy seals and 8 members of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. The Taliban engaged the seals in a 2 hour running firefight in which 3 Seals were killed and one managed to escape with help from a villager. The MH-47 was responding to a call for assistance and was struck with a RPG round. In all 19 Navy Seals and Special forces were killed in this attack the greatest loss for the US in the entire war. Also the single greatest loss in the 42 year history of the Navy Seals.


After making your selection below, copy and paste the above code.

FOX NEWS BOWS TO WHITE HOUSE PRESSURE 
Fox is once again cowering to the President. In response to President Obama’s complaint that FOX News doesn’t show enough Black and Hispanic people on their network, FOX has announced that they will now air ” America’s Most Wanted” TWICE a week.

Photos of Carlos Moleda
SEAL Team FOUR platoon, Operation Just Cause
SEAL TEam FOUR

Summary and Analysis

Some military analysts view the incursion into Panama as “an idiosyncratic operation.” Hostilities began suddenly and ended just as quickly. Indeed, the initial deployments from the United States started within days of the Christmas holidays, and some troops started redeploying to their home stations just as the traditional holiday season was coming to a close. Compared to previous armed conflicts, total casualties were extraordinarily light. Of 26,000 U.S. military personnel stationed in Panama or deployed to the country for this operation, 23 were killed in action and another 322 were wounded. The total casualties included friendly f ire incidents and injuries sustained on drop zones. The Panama Defense Forces, numbering about 15,000 personnel of all ranks and duty assignments, had 314 killed in action, 124 known to have been wounded in action, and over 5,300 detained by U.S. forces.

 

 

Noriega's Airplane
LT. John Connors, SEAL Team 3 KIA Panama Fiasco
Patilla Airfield
SEAL Team FOUR

I am not a SEAL . John Connors lived the next town over and I am friendly with the family. It was 1989 and seems like a lifetime ago. 
Google his name and you will find the story that appeared in Readers Digest “Measure of a Man”. Have a friend who spend over 25 years in ST 3 AND ST 6. He is out now and struggling. I hope to visit him in the near future. Any questions just e-mail me. 
Massachusetts has produced a few Seals in it’s day. Sad the only ones we read about are the ones that have lost there lives. 
Best of luck 
RAY DARLING

WEBMASTER:  Thank you mr. Darling,  Mr. Connors lost his life due to the incompency of the U.S. Army planners to take down Noriega’s plane without destroying it.  In my time as a SEAL, we could have done that job with 2-3 men at the most and would have left nothing but footprints and a disabled jet plane.  PRESENTLY, SEALs run their own OPs and not the Army of anyone else.

    OPERATION JUST CAUSE Panama War

 

Urgent Fury Map, Grenada (war?)
Alfredo Moreno Jr.
Al Moreno and Family
Al Moreno
SEALs Team Four Panama Fiasco Op.
Brian
Christopher G. Campbell
Chris Ben with SIGN
David M. Collins
Gerald Feld
Edward M. Davis
Dillard Blancert
Edward J. Mc Mahon
Jason R. Workman
Feeks P.D.
Michael Chalus. He also participated in Midway, Santa Cruz Guadalcanal and a couple of others
SEAL Training City
Glen Grinage

x

 

 

From: rmuzslay [at]  sterlingcreditcorp  DOT com
To: cressoula [at] hotmail  DOT  com
Subject: sent only to my pervert buddies
Date: Tue, 3 Dec 2013

don’t know if you knew Al Dollear.
We were over at the SEAL bar putting away a few beers when Al had to take a leak. He went out back in the alley and unzipped and let it go when a car came down the alley and put it’s brights on Al as he was pissing. Al started to shake his dick at the car. It turned out to be a female Virginia Beach cop. He got a ticket for brandishing a deadly weapon.


True story
Muz

 

 

Melvin Spence Dry KIA Melvin Spence Dry
Don Shipley
Don Shipley in Puerto Rico

Go Daddy is my server. www.sealtwo.org is paid up until 2025. I, Doc Riojas am 84 yrs. old.  Who will take over this web site?

                                                   

 

                             

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